Join the SEMA Council Family
SEMA hosts 10 distinct councils and committees that represent focused niches within the specialty-equipment industry. These groups are comprised of elected volunteers (Select Committee) who guide and direct council activities while representing the membership at large. Although each council acts independently and represents a different segment, they are all focused on the betterment of the industry as a whole.
The value councils provide SEMA and the industry is beyond refute. It is inspiring to witness a diverse collection of company representatives, many of which are direct competitors, come together and develop educational, training, youth awareness and networking events that are, at the core, designed to give back and promote business. An equally important council function is to ensure that SEMA sustains a pulse on the industry and maintains a presence with its members.
The question is often asked, “Why should my company join a council?”
The answer is simple. SEMA councils open the doors and provide you
exposure to industry leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and a
community of like-minded individuals who share your passion and desire
to see business succeed and prosper. Once the doors are open, it is your
responsibility to take advantage of the benefits by becoming actively
involved.
Learn more today.
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| Visit ARMO's website. | |
ARMO members can plan an entire week of restoration industry activity at the 2011 SEMA Show. Mark your calendar now so you don’t miss any of the action.
Tuesday, ARMO Industry Awards Reception
Las Vegas Hilton, Ballroom C. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and ARMO promises a new look for this premier, restoration-industry networking event.
Wednesday, ARMO Open Meeting
Las Vegas Hilton, Conference Rooms 1&2, call to order at 7:15 a.m.
It’s early, but there’s a continental breakfast and lots of coffee at 7:00 a.m. Find out what the ARMO Select Committee is working on for the membership and share your thoughts and ideas.
Thursday, ARMO Roundtable
Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N218. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity to interact with fellow restoration business owners, listen and share ideas on the “hot topics” in the industry. Based on survey feedback from the membership, this year’s main discussion will be on “Internet Marketing.” Lenny and Dana Schaeffer of Chop Shop Customs and Eric Saltrick of Steele Rubber Products will moderate the discussion. A large portion of the session will be devoted to Q&A. So if you have questions about how to best utilize the Internet for your small business, bring them to the ARMO Roundtable!
Every Day, ARMO/HRIA Show Booth
Located in the heart of the Restoration Market Place in space 23287. Whether you have questions for a Select Committee member or SEMA staff person, or want to catch up with fellow restoration industry peers, be sure to stop by. We’ll have beautiful cars on display, as well as photos from the New Products Display at Spring Carlisle.
ARMO Licensing Guide Now On SEI
ARMO members may now access the ARMO Trademark Licensing Guide online. Previously available only in hard copy, the Guide is now located on the ARMO education track on the SEMA Education Institute (SEI).
Ever wonder how a company gets a restoration product officially licensed by an OEM carmaker? ARMO members can now find introductory information from three original equipment manufacturers (OEM), including preliminary application forms, in one document.
Obtaining a trademark license is one of the few remaining processes that cannot be accomplished "online" or with a simple application. OEM carmakers are very proud and protective of their trademarks. There are many steps involved in order to display an "Officially Licensed" logo on your product. Just finding out where to begin can be a daunting task.
The Trademark Licensing Overview provides ARMO-member companies with the information they need to begin the oftentimes lengthy process in one handy reference document. Ford, GM and Chrysler have supplied contact information, application forms and general process overviews. While the Overview is not a complete guide to trademark licensing, it does provide you with information necessary for all those important first steps.
ARMO Awards Reception Gets New Look
The annual ARMO Awards Reception, held this year on Tuesday, November 1, at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, is getting a new look and a larger venue. Attendees will still enter through Ballroom C of the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel, but once inside, the space will open up another 50%, allowing for a display vehicle inside the reception. The program itself will also sport a new look and feel.
“The ARMO reception is the largest gathering of our members throughout the year and is always popular,” said ARMO Chairperson Laura Bergan of American Collectors Insurance. “But the program itself has become a bit ‘predictable,” so we’re going to change things up a bit this year. I don’t want to divulge all the details, but attendees should expect a lot more focus on networking and much less on a scripted presentation.”
Restoration industry professionals are encouraged to attend the ARMO Awards Reception to see the changes first hand on Tuesday, November 1, 2011, in Ballroom C of the Las Vegas Hilton hotel from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.
ARMO New Products Showcase Gallery Now Open
Check out all the cool, new ARMO-member restoration products that were on display in the 2011 ARMO New Products Showcase tent at Spring Carlisle. For only the cost of shipping the product, ARMO-member companies have their newest product(s) on display in front of the largest gathering of automotive restoration enthusiasts in the country. While on display, each product is professionally photographed, and the photograph and description are then hosted on the ARMO website. The same photographs will also be shown in the ARMO booth and at the ARMO reception at the 2011 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
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| ARMO-member companies display the latest products in front of 100,000+ restoration enthusiasts each year at Spring Carlisle. |
Not an ARMO member? Go to www.sema.org/armo and join now to participate in the 2012 ARMO New Products Showcase!
ARMO Seminars Available on SEI’s New ARMO Education Track
Two ARMO-sponsored education seminars, recorded earlier this year at the 2011 Hotrod & Restoration Show, are now available as part of the ARMO Education Track on the new SEI eLearning Center. The seminars may also be accessed directly from the ARMO website at www.sema.org/armo.
Dick Dixon presents “The Art of Selling” in session one. Dixon is a popular speaker who combines his passion for all things automotive and his experience as an educator to present ideas in new and informative fashion.
Session two features ARMO Chairperson Laura Bergan moderating a panel of industry experts through “Internet Marketing on a Budget.” Panelists Tyler Tanaka, Eric Saltrick and Robert Basha answer questions and provide “real-world” examples of how a small business can utilize the benefits of the Internet without breaking the budget.
Each seminar is approximately one hour in length, and each is presented in its entirety. Nothing has been edited out, so it’s as if you were actually there!
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ARMO Is!
Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
ARMO Column in SEMA Member News
Read ARMO's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit HRIA's website |
SEMA's Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will spotlight a member of the Council each month through its newly created Hot Rodder Highlight. The HRIA, which is dedicated to ensuring the future prosperity of the hot-rod industry and promoting awareness of the hobby, will highlight a new HRIA member on its website on a monthly basis.
HRIA would like to welcome Rich Barsamian, national sales manager for Advanced Clutch Technology, located in Lancaster, California. He enjoys helping customers adapt and grow to the ever-changing market and distribution channels.
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| Rich Barsamian |
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| Barsamian's ’51 Mercury Monterey project vehicle. |
Barsamian’s current hot rod of choice is a ’51 Mercury Monterey. While it has that streamline look with a great profile, this car is a tribute to his dad. On a personal note, Barsamian has been married for 16 years to his beautiful wife Saundra and they have three boys, ages 10–13. He enjoys playing music in the industry band Led Foot to help raise money for the Childhelp children's charity. If you haven’t heard of Led Foot, check them out at the SEMA Show's after-banquet party on Thursday, November 3.
Have You Registered a Patent or Trademark? Your Competition Has
Protecting the intellectual property rights (IPR) of its members is a top SEMA priority. The process begins when companies register their patents, trademarks and copyrights with government agencies in the United States (and other countries). Registration is a key to establishing legal rights.
To assist its members, SEMA has created a webpage called Introduction to Intellectual Property Rights, explaining the different types of IP, including protecting new products (utility patents) and product designs (design patent), identifying the source of the product (trademarks) and protecting product brochures or website designs (copyright). It also contains information on how to register IP along with links to seminars, webinars and SEMA News articles.
With respect to enforcing IP rights at the SEMA Show, the association has developed an effective policy for pursuing infringement allegations. SEMA’s IP enforcement policy is posted on the IPR webpage and is also published as part of the Exhibitor Services Manual. Questions may be directed to Stuart Gosswein (stuartg@sema.org).
Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
HRIA Column in SEMA Member News
Read HRIA's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about HRIA and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.
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| Visit TORA's website. |
TORA Happenings at the SEMA Show
Mark your SEMA Show calendars for all of the following TORA events and activities:
- TORA Booth: located in space #34127 in the upper South Hall, the TORA booth features five display trucks this year. In addition to showcasing the products of many TORA-member companies, each truck on display represents a $1,500 donation from the sponsoring company to SEMA charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp.
- Fall Nationals: TORA will once again host the Fall Nationals Pinewood Drags as a feature element at its annual Industry Awards reception. Attendees may “rent” a Pinewood racer for $25, with proceeds benefitting SEMA's children's charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Camp. The event takes place Wednesday, November 2, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Renaissance Hotel Ballrooms 1 and 2.
- Seminar: Don’t miss the TORA-sponsored seminar entitled, “Creating Store Layouts that Sell, Sell, Sell,” Thursday, November 3, at 9:30 a.m. in Room N257.
TORA is pleased to announce the launch of an TORA education track for the SEMA Education Institute (SEI). TORA members may now reference and download a number of technical resources from the new TORA learning track that were previously available in hard copy only. Now, TORA members have the information at their fingertips via an Internet connection.
Resources currently available are:
- TORA Pickup Truck Bed Dimensions – pdf
- TORA Keyless Entry Connection Guide – pdf
- TORA CHMSL Wiring Connection Guide – pdf
- Why Paint Colors Vary – video
“This is very exciting for the Council,” said TORA Chairman George Lathouris of Keystone Automotive. “These reference tools are always appreciated by installers and counter people in the field. SEI provided us a solution that keeps the tools as an TORA-member benefit and makes for quick and timely updating of data. TORA members received an e-mail recently with instruction on how to access their account on SEI. I encourage all members to get familiar with this TORA education track because this is only the beginning—I promise you!”
Learn more about the TORA education tools.
Not yet an TORA member? Download an application or contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org or 909-978-6690 for more information.
Below are the final two summaries of Vehicle Technology Briefings at the SEMA Show. All of the sessions take place in the new VTC Theater in the Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. That’s right, the same Upper South Hall where all of the light-truck exhibitor displays are located, so there’s no excuse for not taking in as many of these highly informative and very relevant discussions.
Vehicle Technology Briefing #6
Session: Performance Engines and Lubrication
Date/Time: Thursday, November 3, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Location: Vehicle Technology Center, South Hall Upper Level; Booth 35185
Presenters: Lake Speed Jr., Joe Gibbs Racing; Scooter Brothers, COMP Cams, Ron Shaver, Shaver Specialties Racing Engines; John Martin, Shell Oil Research
Description: Advanced engine and transmission technologies, such as cam phasing, variable valve timing, port deactivation, direct injection, turbo boosting, dry dual clutches and wide-ratio six-speed-plus gearing, combined with reduced mass, decreased parasitic losses and integrated engine and transmission control software have improved the internal-combustion engine in vehicles to efficiencies that would have been unbelievable just five years ago. Federal and state EPA requirements have forced changes in motor oil formulas, and these changes have significantly affected the performance aftermarket. Flat-Tappet camshaft failures have increased due to the change in motor oil formulations. Upcoming changes may create additional issues and challenges to the performance aftermarket. This session will focus on evolving performance engine designs, technologies, as well as help members understand and deal with the changes in motor oil formulations and develop strategies to properly respond to these change.
Vehicle Technology Briefing #7
Session: Off-Road Racing and Performance Forum
Date/Time: Thursday, November 3, 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Location: Vehicle Technology Center, South Hall Upper Level; Booth 35185
Presenters: Ricky Johnson, Motocross and Off-Road Champion, TORC; Troy Lee, Troy Lee Designs; Tom Bogner, Lucas Oil Motorsports; Mark Negast, Lucas Oil; Justyn Amstutz, National Powersport Auctions; additional speakers to be added.
Description: This forum session will focus on the cross-industry business synergy and lifestyle opportunities between the automotive performance aftermarket and powersports industries. Off-road motorcycle and truck racing, as well as motocross, rallycross and gymkhana, are all leading the way as these exciting sports and lifestyles continue to evolve with endemic and nonendemic players, sponsors and technologies. The mission of SEMA’s Powersports Advisory Group is to help powersports industry members’ businesses succeed and prosper by elevating the industry to new levels of growth through proactive leadership, world-class educational programs, legislative and regulatory advocacy and participation in the industry’s leading trade show.
Racers and experts from leading powersports companies, motorsports organizations and innovative SEMA companies will provide an exciting overview of the challenges and opportunities for growth and profitability as the automotive and powersports industries continue to blend and merge. This open-forum roundtable discussion will also include interaction with the audience to explore potential solutions, joint-industry initiatives and new business opportunities for powersports and SEMA members to partner, leverage and capitalize on their combined capabilities with emerging technologies and growing market segments.
New Products Showcase Photo Gallery Now Open
The 2011 TORA New Products Showcase Photo Gallery is now open on the TORA website. Photos of the 60+ products that were on display are still being added, so visit the site regularly for updates. View the photo gallery.
The New Products Showcase gives TORA-member companies the opportunity to display their latest products in front of one of the largest gatherings of light truck enthusiasts in the country. In addition, each product is professionally photographed, and the photos and product descriptions are posted in a gallery on the TORA website where they live until the next year’s products are posted. The photos are also presented in a video in the TORA booth and during the TORA Fall Nationals Awards Reception at the SEMA Show.
Not yet an TORA member? Let the TORA New Products Showcase be one of your reasons for joining. Companies may download the TORA application from the TORA website. Just click on the big red button that says “Join This Council.”
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| More than 60 products from 35 TORA-member companies were on display at the 2011 TORA New Products Showcase. |
New Products Showcase – Put your product in front of one of the largest gathering of truck enthusiasts in the country at the Carlisle Truck Nationals.
Networking – TORA mixer at the Carlisle All Truck Nationals, Annual Long-Range Planning meeting and access to TORA members and light-truck industry professionals around the world.
Tools and resources for the retailer and installer – "Pickup Bed Dimensions Sheet," "Keyless Entry Wiring Pickup Points Reference Sheet," "Why Paints Don’t Match" DVD and more.
Education – and TORA-specific learning track on the new SEI from SEMA, coming soon!
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.
To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
TORA Column in SEMA Member News
Read TORA's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about TORA, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit MPMC's website. |
MPMC Announces 2012 Media Trade Conference Exhibitors
The following MPMC companies will exhibit at the 2012 MPMC Media Trade Conference, January 24–26 in El Segundo, California. These 100 companies were selected via a random number lottery out of a record 122 registrations.
The 22 companies that did not make it through the lottery process are automatically placed on a “wait list.' If an exhibitor chooses to drop out of the event before Media Registration opens in mid-to-late October, the first company on the waitlist is called to fill the slot.
“The good news for companies on the waitlist,” said MPMC Chair-Elect Vic Wood of Hedman Hedders, “is that anyone on the waitlist in 2012 is guaranteed a spot in 2013 simply by submitting a timely registration next year. Even if a company has the absolute worst lottery or gambling luck in the world, they can still get in “every other year” by virtue of this rule. So, all is not lost by being the waitlist. A year goes by ever so quickly.”
The 2012 MPMC Media Trade Conference takes place January 24–26, 2012, at the Embassy Suites LAX South Hotel in El Segundo, California. This is a truly unique event that brings editorial staff from all over the world together with racing and high-performance parts manufacturers for three days of face-to-face meetings. Nowhere else can a manufacturer have the opportunity to spend so much face time with so many automotive journalists.
Not yet an MPMC member? Join now at www.sema.org/mpmc. Only MPMC-member companies have a chance at being one of the “lucky 100” to spend three days with automotive editors.
2012 MPMC Media Trade Conference Exhibitors:
- Advanced Clutch Technology
- AEM Performance Electronics
- Aeromotive Inc.
- AFCO Racing and Dynatech Headers
- AIRAID Filter Co.
- American Supercars
- ARP Inc.
- ATI ProCharger
- Auto Meter
- B&M Racing & Performance
- Baer Brakes
- Banks Power
- Be Cool
- BG Fuel Systems
- BILSTEIN Shock Absorbers
- BluePrint Engines
- Borgeson Universal Co.
- BREMBO North America
- Centerforce Clutches
- Champion Oil
- CHERRYBOMB Performance Exhaust
- Chris Alston's Chassisworks
- Coker Tire Co.
- COMP Cams
- CP-Carrillo
- Crane Cams
- Dart Machinery
- Hawk Performance
- DiabloSport
- DuPont Hot Hues
- Eaton Aeroquip Performance
- Eaton Performance Products
- Edelbrock
- Energy Suspension
- Falken Tire
- Federal Mogul Corp.
- Fidanza Engineering Corp.
- Flaming River Industries
- Flex-a-lite
- Gear Vendors
- Gibson Performance Exhaust
- GM Performance Parts
- Granatelli Motor Sports
- Hedman Performance Group
- Hellwig Products
- Holley Performance Products
- Hotchkis Performance
- Hughes Performance
- Hypertech
- JE Pistons
- JET Performance Products
- Jiffy-tite
- Joe Gibbs Driven
- K&N Engineering
- Lokar
- Lunati
- MagnaFlow
- MAHLE Clevite
- Maradyne High Performance Fans
- Mast Motorsports
- MasterCraft Safety/ Impact Racing
- McLeod Racing
- Meziere Enterprises
- Mickey Thompson Performance Tires and Wheels
- MSD Ignition
- Nitrous Express
- Painless Performance
- Performance Design
- Pertronix Performance Products
- POWERMASTER PERFORMANCE
- Powertrain Control Solutions
- Precision Turbo and Engine
- Prestolite Performance
- QA1 Precision Products
- Quick Fuel Technology
- Red Line Synthetic Oil Corp.
- RePlay XD (Stable Imaging)
- ROUSH Performance
- Royal Purple Inc.
- Skyjacker Suspensions
- SLP Performance Parts
- Snow Performance
- SPAL USA
- Specialty Auto Parts USA
- SPECTRE Performance
- SpeedDirect
- SPX Corporation
- Stainless Steel Brakes
- Superchips
- TCI
- Tenneco Inc.: Rancho Suspension, DynoMax, Thrush
- TOTAL SEAL
- Toyo Tire
- TREMEC Transmissions
- Trick Flow Specialties
- Turbonetics
- Vortech/Paxton
- Weld Racing
- Whiteline Automotive
- Wilwood Disc Brakes
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!
Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page
The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News
Read MPMC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit MRC's website. |
Premier Event: Network. Honor. Learn.
In addition to the much-anticipated seminar by Management Essentials President Mary Repetto, entitled, “Have You Ever Wanted to Tell Your Rep Off? And Vice-Versa?” the Manufacturers Rep Council (MRC) hosts a networking reception and Awards presentation in conjunction with the annual Rep Conference.
The festivities kick-off Sunday, October 30, at 3:30 p.m. with the networking reception. This is a great opportunity to catch up with old friends, discuss business opportunities and expand your list of industry contacts. Wade Cobb, MRC chairman, “encourages all attendees to take full advantage of this time.” Cobb also adds that “peer-to-peer interaction is essential to gaining a better understanding of the industry and growing your business.”
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| MRC Chair Wade Cobb, HAPCO, speaks during the 2010 Rep Conference in Las Vegas. |
From there, MRC will honor the Sales Team Annual Recognition (STAR) and Hall of Fame recipients. The STAR Award recognizes an industry manufacturer who epitomizes professionalism and teamwork and works ethically in dealing with manufacturer representatives. Past winners include TruXedo, MagnaFlow and Husky Liners.
The MRC Hall of Fame is the council’s most prestigious award and serves to recognize those individuals who have made significant contributions toward enhancing professionalism, dignity and the general stature and growth of the manufacturer's rep industry. The MRC Hall of Fame was first awarded in 2006 with Robert Patteri being inducted. Fellow Hall of Fame members include Jim Wrobleski Sr. (2007), Bill Perry (2008), Bob Cook (2009) and Jim Considine Jr. in 2010.
For a complete list of past MRC Award Winners, visit MRC Award Winners.
Don’t miss the exclusive opportunity to network, honor the industry and learn. Sign-up today for the MRC Rep Conference. For questions and event details, contact SEMA Council Director Zane Clark at ZaneC@SEMA.org.
On the Move with MRC
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The 2011 MRC Rep Conference will focus on the relationship between the manufacturer, account and rep. |
2011 MRC Rep Conference
Sunday, October 30, 2011
3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Hilton Pavilion 1&2
Have You Ever Wanted to Tell Your Reps Off? And Vice Versa?
So why doesn’t it work? There are solutions! We will discover them in a short, 75-minute, highly interactive session at the MRC Rep Conference and Awards Ceremony. The relationship between the manufacturer, account and rep is an important one, and just like any other relationship, it must be built on great communication and trust. First we have to figure out what we aren’t doing that we should and what we are doing that we shouldn’t. We’ll start there and together build a solid plan to move forward into a more productive partnership. The result, of course, should mean more $$$ and less frustration for us all.
This year’s featured speaker is Mary Repetto. She is the president of Management Essentials and a partner in Lighthouse Consulting Partners. She is a certified sales professional from the Manufacturers’ Representatives Education Research Foundation, certified as a project management professional by the Project Management Institute and a certified business analysis professional by the International Institute of Business Analysis. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Colorado, an MBA in finance from the University of Colorado, a master’s certificate in project management from DeVry University and a green belt in Six Sigma from Villanova University. Prior to starting her own business, Repetto spent 20 years in sales and product management with AT&T and Lucent Technologies.
Repetto consistently receives client praise for her unique approach to speaking and training delivery. She is an author, speaker, instructor, content contributor and expert facilitator. Her expertise in soft skill instruction enables her to motivate, challenge and guide participants through a memorable learning experience.
Register now for the 2011 MRC Rep Conference or contact Zane Clark at 909/978-6696 or by e-mail at zanec@sema.org for more information. See you in Vegas!
A Message From MRC Chair Wade Cobb
The MRC council has been chipping away at what our Long-Range Planning session of 2010 identified as a need—benefits for our membership! MRC recently put a program together with TeleNotes, offering our members a business tool to elevate their company’s ability to capture data and reporting. We are also continuing to work on travel programs, possibly offering an “MRC” rate at our industry events, such as PWA and the SEMA Show, with select lodging. We also recognized the need to reach out to our general members and non-members to determine what it is they need from MRC.
In February we conducted an online survey to 3,500 rep agencies associated with SEMA to find out more about reps and how MRC can maximize its efforts as a council to provide you with benefits. Thanks to all who took the time to respond; it’s the only way we can build a better MRC. Just as any council or association, it’s imperative to get the feedback from members on what works or needs to be fixed. As we move on reviewing the data MRC has been able to obtain through the survey and the information from our LRP, the council will continue to put action plans in place to address the concerns.
In our most recent teleconference, MRC has established the date and time for the MRC event to be held at the 2011 SEMA Show, Sunday, October 30, from 4:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m. The MRC Rep Conference task force headed by our own Thomas Jordan is in the midst of debating the topic and format to ensure we have the best possible event for you.
Looking to continue the efforts put forth by our members, MRC attended the MPMC Media Trade Conference held in Los Angeles this past January with the purpose of representing MRC to the manufacturers present. MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless and I had a MRC room all three days of the event, conducting meetings with members interested in utilizing reps and showing them the value of using rep agencies. We provided each exhibiting company with an MRC brochure and offered the MRC DVD for additional information. Both Chris and I were very pleased with the event, realizing this was a first for MRC and a great opportunity given to MRC by MPMC to explore the venue and take away ideas to build even better programs for coming events. We truly wish to thank Kyle Fickler and Vic Wood of MPMC for working with us during the MPMC Media Trade Conference.
We look forward to working with other industry segments to continue educating our fellow industry members on the benefits of utilizing a rep agency as their sales force. Your thoughts and comments are welcome any time. We need to hear your voice, so please speak out!
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRC is!Be sure to follow MRC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
MRC Column in SEMA Member NewsRead MRC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about MRC, contact Zane Clark.
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| Visit PRO's website. |
Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
PRO Column in SEMA Member News
Read PRO's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about PRO, contact Zane Clark or call 909/978-6696.
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| Visit SBN's website. |
SEMA Businesswomen's Highlight
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is spotlighting a feature member this month. The SBN creates an avenue for women in the specialty-equipment industry by providing a circuit to enhance their professional growth and networking opportunities that will enrich the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket.
The first member to be featured is Erika Garcia, retail sales manager in the aftermarket division of
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| Erika Garcia |
BOLT—a Strattec Security Corp., located in Milwaukee. The company is a supplier of automotive locks, keys and other vehicle-access products.
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Getting to participate in the introduction of BOLT series locks into new markets, including truck accessories.
How long have you been involved in the aftermarket industry?
About 18 months.
What brought you into this industry?
The introduction of this new line of locks.
What are your major professional accomplishments?
I’m very proud to be the primary point of contact for our company for any external aspects related to the BOLT series locks. There is a team behind the scenes that supports me, and I give them a lot of credit for a successful launch.
Are you a member of any other organizations?
SEMA's Young Executives Network (YEN).
Who is your industry mentor?
Jerry Nuñez, manufacturer sales rep for IMS Products.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Smile at all times.
What would someone meeting you for the first time be surprised to learn?
I’m not only a pretty friendly face, but I’m knowledgeable about my products and the industry.
What is your dream car?
Lexus IS F.
What is your favorite pastime?
Reading.
SEMA Businesswomen’s Network Debuts Speed Networking Event Video
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) has released its 2010 Speed Networking Breakfast—Powered by SBN event video. If you attended this sold-out event—or even if you missed it—you must check out the video so you can plan ahead to attend this year’s event.
While the SBN Speed Networking Breakfast is not exclusively for women, it clearly focuses on recognizing women who significantly contribute to the aftermarket and performance industries.
With special thanks to James and Melissa Lawrence of PowerTV, who covered this event, we are able to share the highlights with our members. Captured on video are glimpses of the event, which includes an exclusive interview with SBN's 2010 Woman of the Year Award recipient Kellie Colf of Aftermarketer Club Inc., and Zan Martin of Martin & Company Advertising. Both discuss the significance of each award.
Also accepting an SBN Award was Wade Kawasaki of Exports International, who was awarded the 2010 Athena Award for his support of women in the automotive aftermarket industry. And presenting the Mentor of the Year Award to a deserving John Menzler of Comp Performance Group was Joe St. Lawrence of RTM Productions Inc.—Titanium Sponsor of the event.
SBN’s annual breakfast event held during SEMA Show week is a great opportunity to network, learn and forge new relationships with others who share the same goals and interests of growing the automotive aftermarket industry and promoting the success of all.
Check out the following links to view video and photos from the 2010 SBN Annual Speed Networking Breakfast:
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network committee is a great resource of minds. All ladies in the specialty-equipment industry can join the SBN, so pass the word around to your colleagues and friends! We are encouraging all new and existing SBN members to log-in to the MySEMA portal to update their profile with a photo so we get to know each other's faces before the SEMA Show.
And don’t forget to turn your notifications settings “ON” so you can stay in “the loop.” Want to know more about the SBN? Interested in becoming a member?
Want to get involved in the industry but don't know how? We have an app for that! Go to www.SEMA.org, click on the Leadership tab, click on Council/Committee, click on SBN and join! Don't delay—get involved and join now. You are just a few clicks away! We look forward to "seeing" everyone!
Don’t Be Out of the Loop—Stay in Touch
The very best way to stay in touch and to read the latest news, discussions and topics posted from SEMA and the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is to make sure that your notification settings are turned on in your MySEMA account. Next to your photo on your MySEMA page, at the top right, is a link to the "Edit My Settings" page.
On the “settings” page, look for the “notifications” tab, where it will ask how you would like to receive your news. Check whichever method is most convenient, but either way, make sure you're in the loop by turning “on” your notifications. Visit http://my.sema.org to make sure you don’t miss a thing!
Discover the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by the SBN
“I’ll get by with a little help from my friends…” - Joe Cocker
Everyone needs help or expert advice from time to time, and SEMA’s
Mentoring Program is an excellent resource to get answers to all your
questions. Whether you need to know more about SEMA, market information
for a start-up company or advice on how to approach your boss about a
new position, the SEMA Mentoring Program can help.
“Ask A
Mentor” is perfect for one-time questions. You can expect multiple SEMA
mentors to provide online guidance and answers to your industry-related
questions.
Short-term Assistance/Guidance is for help with a
specific project or task. A SEMA council/committee mentor with the
expertise you seek will be paired up with you to provide guidance with
your project.
Long-term Relationship is helpful for developing
your professional career. In this program segment you will be paired
with a SEMA council/committee mentor who will provide guidance and
assistance for ongoing career development or a long-term project.
So whether you just need an answer to a question or you want to
cultivate a mentoring friendship, the SEMA Mentoring Program—Powered by
the SBN is available to help. After all, we can all use a little help
from our friends.
Visit the SEMA Mentoring Program now.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!
Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
SBN Column in SEMA Member News
Read SBN's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about SBN, contact Bryan Harrison.
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| Visit SPC's website. |
Participate in the automotive aftermarket at a whole new level by joining the SPC.
The purpose of SEMA councils is to help our member companies succeed and prosper. In the SPC, our mission is to provide market information, education and support to our members concerning new and emerging trends. Whether it’s the latest business technology, forecasting sales, future marketing solutions or up and coming vehicle platforms, we give you and your company the chance to see what’s on the horizon.
Then we’ll help you understand and acquire the skills, tools and
technologies to lead the way. The SPC has the most diverse membership
of any SEMA council, and that will allow you to network with other
professionals from every facet of our industry and gain insights into
areas you may not have previously considered. Find out about the parts,
people, technologies, strategies, trends and, most important,
possibilities.
This is your chance to give something back to the industry, your
profession and to grow personally along the way. Join the SPC today and
become an active member of the specialty equipment and automotive
market — Tracie Nuñez, Advanced Clutch Technology, SPC Chairman
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SPC is!
Be sure to follow SPC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/spc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
SPC Column in SEMA Member News
Read SPC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about SPC, contact Bryan Harrison.
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| Visit WTC's website |
Have you ever wondered how to get more involved in the SEMA Wheel and Tire (WTC) Council?
What exactly do the council leaders do throughout their term? Very simply, the Select Committee is elected by members of the council to serve a two-year term. They participate in monthly conference calls and meetings that are held at various trade events throughout the year. Each Select Committee member volunteers for at least 20 hours throughout the year, and some volunteer even more. Some share their experience and vision, others provide creative solutions to challenges our member companies are facing and others get their hands dirty and get it done. Each Select Committee member is supported by their company in their WTC efforts, and for that we say “thank you” to those companies!
The leaders of the WTC gathered earlier this year at SEMA headquarters in Diamond Bar, California, for its annual Long-Range Planning meeting. This meeting focused on bringing value to the WTC-member companies. The past 18 months have been extremely challenging for all of our companies and the council is dedicated to utilizing SEMA’s resources to further benefit each WTC member.
Guiding the group’s effort was the council’s mission statement to “identify common problems and opportunities relating to the wheel and tire industries that the council, as an interested body of companies, can address for the common good.” A handful of exciting objectives are being developed for the council over this year and next. If you are passionate and have an interest in being involved, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer for a task force with a limited investment of time that provides a great way to network and share your ideas. Please reach out to the task force chair if you want to participate or have comments.
Science and Technology Task Force
Tim Dietz (Standards Testing Laboratories Inc.) and can be reached at tdietz@stllabs.com. This group focuses on aftermarket and OEM advances that affect our industry. From creating wheel standards to improved processes for tire-pressure monitoring systems and electronic stability control, the Science and Technology Task Force plays a pivotal role in the industry’s advancement.
Education Task Force
Kelly Austin (Ultra Wheel Company) chairs this group and can be reached at kelly@mail.ultrawheel.com. The education task force is charged with developing successful programs for members to enhance their businesses. The WTC Task Force is responsible for partnering with the SEMA Educational Institute to create and promote online learning resources.
Communication and Marketing Task Force
Doug Frymer (Law Offices of Douglas A. Frymer) chairs this group and can be reached at legal@starshieldarmor.com. This group focuses on membership outreach, growth and retention. It is imperative that councils effectively communicate services provided by WTC and SEMA to our members. Communication and services ensure that there is proper dialogue between leadership and membership.
SEMA Show Task Force
David Insull (American Tire Distributors) chairs this group and can be reached at dinsull@atd-us.com. The SEMA Show in Las Vegas provides the backdrop for critical networking functions. This group focuses on making WTC’s awards reception an ideal place to get together, honor one another and network with all those who share a common passion.
There are so many other things the council leadership does throughout the year. You are the expert at what your business needs and this council wants to deliver. Feel free to get in touch with us or come to one of our WTC events. Our hope is that, if you haven’t been a part of WTC yet, you will be in 2010 and beyond.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!
Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
WTC Column in SEMA Member News
Read WTC's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about WTC and how to join, contact Zane Clark or call or 909/978-6696.
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| Visit YEN's website |
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Since 2004, SEMA's Young Executives Network has been dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their automotive specialty-equipment career.
“SEMA and YEN are believers in higher education,” said Gregory Parker, chairman of the Young Executives Network. “However, with today's higher costs of getting an education, more and more students have to turn to student loans. The new YEN Loan Forgiveness Scholarship Award will now be able to help a previous or current student who has loans they are trying to pay off while working within our industry. Our inaugural scholarship winner, Jaclyn Kilani, worked hard to put herself through school and is now working for a SEMA-member company. We are just glad we are able to recognize and reward her for her hard work, and we look forward to doing the same for other industry peers as we move into the future.”
Kilani, who recently graduated from California State University with a degree in graphic design, is the marketing director at Dannmar Equipment, a manufacturer of automotive repair products. Of the specialty-equipment industry, Kilani says, “I couldn’t see myself anywhere else. It’s an eclectic marketplace with a very unique audience, and I love the challenge of marketing a company in a non-traditional way. This award came at the perfect time, and it's a tremendous step toward my goal of becoming debt-free. I truly appreciate the privilege.”
The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is dedicated to aiding recent graduates in getting off to a successful start in their specialty-equipment career. SEMA offers a minimum of $1,000 toward outstanding student loans for individuals who are employed by SEMA-member companies. Applications for the next program are available at www.sema.org/scholarships.
Join YEN
Did
you know that the SEMA Young Executives Network has more than 500
members networking in the industry and is the largest SEMA committee?
If you are employed by a SEMA-member company and are under the age of
39, then you can join the SEMA Young Executives Network for FREE. If
you are interested in becoming part of the team, please visit our
website at www.sema.org/yen.
YEN Member of the Month Spotlight
Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA
website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections
or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!
Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
YEN Column in SEMA Member News
Read YEN's column featured in the September/October issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about YEN, contact Bryan Harrison.
